Whether or not you’ve trimmed a tree yet or have pulled out the winter decor, we can all agree that the holiday season is officially here, right? After all, Thanksgiving is a beloved (and sometimes stressful) holiday, and given how hectic this time of year can be, many of us are already planning the first of several holiday parties to celebrate with friends, family, and loved ones.
And let’s be real — we can’t all be chefs. But, that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy chef-quality meals at home! Creative caterers and restaurants have once again stepped up to the plate to create winter and holiday menus that are available for pre-order right now for your Thanksgivings, Friendsgivings, and other holiday parties this November.
While by no means a comprehensive list of restaurants and caterers that will be offering holiday meals this month, here are some of our favorites that feature twists on classic dishes, custom menus for gatherings of any size, and the convenience of seasonal, delicious meals from locally-owned businesses that will make your special events even more memorable.
Scratch & Co.
Image via Scratch & Co., @scratchco_pgh Instagram
Does it get any more Pittsburgh Thanksgiving than this? Troy Hill restaurant Scratch & Co. will be offering a bevy of pierogies that feature some of your favorite holiday essentials, including green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, honey carrot, squash with maple and brown butter, and of course pumpkin pie. To share these ‘rogis with your loved ones on the big day, place your order by November 24th — pickups start November 20th!
Mediterra Cafe
Image via Mediterra Cafe, @mediterracafe Instagram
Mediterra hasn’t officially launched their winter holiday menu yet, but we’re very excited to see what they have in store this year. Previous years have included hearty entrees like braised short ribs and root vegetable pot pie, morning essentials for brunching with the fam on the big day, and tons of sweets from the pastry case and Mediterra’s legendary bakehouse. The good news: their Thanksgiving Leftover croissant (seen above) is available through November 30th if you find yourself craving the flavors of the holidays while you wait!
Market Street Grocery
Image via Market Street Grocery, @marketstgrocery Instagram
Market Street Grocery just launched a new collaboration with Jess Iacullo of Hungry Jess Big City, and you’ll want to act fast if you want to get in on this. The Thanksgiving Burrito kit can serve either two or four with optional wine pairings and includes your choice of protein (chicken, pork, or vegetarian-friendly seitan butternut squash tinga), and toppings like brown sugar chili yam chips, rice-seasoned stuffing, Chihuahua cheese, green bean pomegranate salsa, and pepitas. Order by November 22nd for pickup downtown on the 24th!
Chef Alekka Sweeney
Image via Alekka Sweeney, @chef.alekka Instagram
If you’re hosting a holiday gathering this year, Chef Alekka Sweeney is about to be your new best friend. No matter the occasion or dietary needs, she can work with you to plan a custom dinner menu for up to 25 people in the comfort of your home, complete with apps, desserts, and wine recommendations. For something a bit more casual, her a la carte seasonal menu features countless winter favorites that are sure to impress your friends and family, including roasted Moroccan salmon with winter squash, white wine braised chicken with artichokes and orzo, and a coconut chicken meatball and noodle curry. (Be on the lookout — her holiday menu launches soon!)
Kimberley Ashlee Catering
Image via Kimberley Ashlee Catering, @kimberleyashleecatering Instagram
If you’re not just looking for catering for your holiday gathering, but also a space to host, get connected with Kimberley Ashlee Catering. In addition to a delicious holiday menu of winter favorites, Kimberly Ashlee Catering and the brand’s restaurant Terrene can host your next holiday party at their gorgeous space in Station Square that features high ceilings, an open kitchen, and patio space that is perfect for a plated dinner for up to 30 or a reception for up to 50 guests. Best of all? There’s no venue rental fee through the end of 2021!
Sausalido
Image via Sausalido, @sausalido Instagram
Chef Nick Mineo’s Sausalido offers both catering and pantry-packing, so if you just need an assist in the kitchen rather than an entire takeover, you’ve got to check them out. Fully-prepared meals and side dishes with chef-inspired flavors are always available, along with selections of curated groceries and build-your-own meal kits for experimenting in your own kitchen. Of course, if you’re in the market for a space to host, their private dining location in Bloomfield can host parties starting at 15 guests with several tasty menus and classy, cozy Napa Valley vibes.
The Cooked Goose Catering Company
Image via Cooked Goose Catering, @cookedgoosecatering Instagram
With over 35 years of experience and a 100-mile delivery radius, the Cooked Goose is an institution in Pittsburgh with fresh, flexible catering menus for every occasion. Their Thanksgiving preorder deadline of November 19th is fast approaching, but even if you miss out, the Cooked Goose will be offering delicious holiday favorites all season long, including their Christmas menus (which are already available for preorder) that feature substantial classics like maple-glazed ham, prime rib, roast beef, several varieties of baked pasta, and all the sides.
Pane è Pronto
Image via Pane è Pronto, @paneepronto Instagram
Pane è Pronto, an offshoot of popular Italian bistro DiAnoina’s Eatery, can help you add a little taste of Italy to your holiday meal. Serving at least two (but of course more if you’d like), their Thanksgiving preorders feature a unique menu of house-made porchetta, cacio e pepe mashed potatoes, lasagne, stuffing, and meatballs. They’re also bringing back their popular cranberry and pistachio sourdough bread, which brights up any holiday table. Preorder now to pick up on November 24th!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.